An artist doing her work. (Photo credits: Molly Sexton)
Falmouth University has jumped on the AI bandwagon with the announcement of a new degree in Artificial Intelligence starting in 2026. This move has been controversial amongst current students. Many have expressed their concerns about the damage this might do to the creative industry. One petition, Stop AI FXU, has gained over 500 signatures.
One aspiring artist says that she avoids using AI in her day-to-day life.
“I’ve never really been interested in anything that AI has to offer. I have plenty of alternatives to use, so why would I use something that could take away jobs in the future”.
She explains that she finds it difficult to know what the future of our relationship with AI holds.
“There are just so many things that are undiscovered with it. You just don’t know how it’s going to benefit us in the future”.
This is an attitude shared by many creatives.
Falmouth University has come under backlash from students due to its high number of creative degrees.
A spokesperson from the university released a statement addressing the students concerns.
“We hear the concerns that are being raised about the impact of AI on the Creative Industries, and as a place of learning and enquiry, embrace the discussion and debate”.
They also emphasised the importance of keeping up with the ever-changing world of technology.
“It is incumbent on us, as a leading creative institution to approach it critically, to ensure our creative graduates not only understand its impact, but can harness its potential, navigate its risks and shape the future of the Creative Industries where AI will unavoidably be a part”